In the Book of Mormon I read that the Lord strengthens us and provides the way that we can keep the commandments and do whatever He commands us to do. If He asks us to do something, He'll provide the way. 1 Ne. 17: 3 "And thus we see that the commandments of God must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and strengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commanded them; wherefore, he did provide means for us while we did sojourn in the wilderness."
In the New Testament we read that even while Jesus was being crucified, He called out to His Father to forgive those who were doing this to Him. How forgiving are we? Do we follow the Savior's example in forgiving those who tresspass against us? Luke 23:33-34 "And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots."
Some verses with a thought booklet explain the symbolism of baptism. When we're lowered into the water, it's like our old sinful lives are being buried. And when we're raised up out of the water, it's like a new life beginning in Christ. Romans 6:3-13 "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God."
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And it shall come to pass in the last days,when the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains....The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read how the brothers of Nephi rebelled against him and their father and murmured about having left Jeruselem. In fact, they even wanted to kill their father. However, the voice of the Lord came and chastened them so they repented. 1 Ne. 16: 36-39 "And thus they did murmur against my father, and also against me; and they were desirous to return again to Jerusalem. And Laman said unto Lemuel and also unto the sons of Ishmael: Behold, let us slay our father, and also our brother Nephi, who has taken it upon him to be our ruler and our teacher, who are his elder brethren. Now, he says that the Lord has talked with him, and also that angels have ministered unto him. But behold, we know that he lies unto us; and he tells us these things, and he worketh many things by his cunning arts, that he may deceive our eyes, thinking, perhaps, that he may lead us away into some strange wilderness; and after he has led us away, he has thought to make himself a king and a ruler over us, that he may do with us according to his will and pleasure. And after this manner did my brother Laman stir up their hearts to anger. And it came to pass that the Lord was with us, yea, even the voice of the Lord came and did speak many words unto them, and did chasten them exceedingly; and after they were chastened by the voice of the Lord they did turn away their anger, and did repent of their sins, insomuch that the Lord did bless us again with food, that we did not perish."
In the New Testament I read how Jesus told His disciples to pray lest they enter into temptation. If this was important for His disciples, how important is it for us today? We need to be constantly prayerful that we'll be strong enough to resist temptations that come our way. Luke 22:40 "And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we need to show ourselves a model of good works and in our teaching show integrity, gravity and sound speech that cannot be centured. We need to live our lives so that no one has anything evil to say about us. In other words, we need to demonstrate by our actions what it is like to live a Christlike life. The thought that went with this, written by Kim Sheard from Fairfax, Virginia, said: One day a high school science teacher told her class that the element sodium is very reactive with water. The students wrote that down. A second teacher gathered her students around a table and had them put on goggles. She then proceeded to drop a postage stamp-sized spquare of sodium into a beaker of water. The woft, shiny metal seemed to mealt at first, then caught fire with a pop and burned brightly until it was consumed. The students gasped and jumped back from the flame. Which students better understood and remembered sodium's reactivity with water: those who were told or those who were shown? In today's scripture passage, Paul instructs Titus to show others Christian principles rather than just telling them what God requires. In the same way, each of us represents Christ through our behavior, and our examples are more helpful to others than mere words. We can demonstrate love, selflessness, concern for others, generosity, and other Christian cfharacter traits through our actions. We can show others how to live Christian lives! Titus 2:7-8 "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. "
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In the New Testament I read how Jesus told His disciples to pray lest they enter into temptation. If this was important for His disciples, how important is it for us today? We need to be constantly prayerful that we'll be strong enough to resist temptations that come our way. Luke 22:40 "And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we need to show ourselves a model of good works and in our teaching show integrity, gravity and sound speech that cannot be centured. We need to live our lives so that no one has anything evil to say about us. In other words, we need to demonstrate by our actions what it is like to live a Christlike life. The thought that went with this, written by Kim Sheard from Fairfax, Virginia, said: One day a high school science teacher told her class that the element sodium is very reactive with water. The students wrote that down. A second teacher gathered her students around a table and had them put on goggles. She then proceeded to drop a postage stamp-sized spquare of sodium into a beaker of water. The woft, shiny metal seemed to mealt at first, then caught fire with a pop and burned brightly until it was consumed. The students gasped and jumped back from the flame. Which students better understood and remembered sodium's reactivity with water: those who were told or those who were shown? In today's scripture passage, Paul instructs Titus to show others Christian principles rather than just telling them what God requires. In the same way, each of us represents Christ through our behavior, and our examples are more helpful to others than mere words. We can demonstrate love, selflessness, concern for others, generosity, and other Christian cfharacter traits through our actions. We can show others how to live Christian lives! Titus 2:7-8 "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. "
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Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we read the story of how Nephi's bow was broken and they could not obtain food so his family started murmuring against the Lord. Even his father Lehi joined in with the complaining. Nephi, however, remained faithful. He chastised his murmuring family and they humbled themselves and his father inquired of the Lord what they should do. The Liahona directed Nephi where to go to hunt food. He made himself another bow and was sucessful in getting food for the family. When we are suffering with afflictions and trials in our lives, instead of murmuring and complaining, we need to follow Nephi's example--turn to the Lord for help. And then when He does help us, we need to express our gratitude to Him. 1 Ne. 16: 18-32 "And it came to pass that as I, Nephi, went forth to slay food, behold, I did break my bow, which was made of fine steel; and after I did break my bow, behold, my brethren were angry with me because of the loss of my bow, for we did obtain no food. And it came to pass that we did return without food to our families, and being much fatigued, because of their journeying, they did suffer much for the want of food. And it came to pass that Laman and Lemuel and the sons of Ishmael did begin to murmur exceedingly, because of their sufferings and afflictions in the wilderness; and also my father began to murmur against the Lord his God; yea, and they were all exceedingly sorrowful, even that they did murmur against the Lord. Now it came to pass that I, Nephi, having been afflicted with my brethren because of the loss of my bow, and their bows having lost their springs, it began to be exceedingly difficult, yea, insomuch that we could obtain no food. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did speak much unto my brethren, because they had hardened their hearts again, even unto complaining against the Lord their God. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did make out of wood a bow, and out of a straight stick, an arrow; wherefore, I did arm myself with a bow and an arrow, with a sling and with stones. And I said unto my father: Whither shall I go to obtain food? And it came to pass that he did inquire of the Lord, for they had humbled themselves because of my words; for I did say many things unto them in the energy of my soul.5 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came unto my father; and he was truly chastened because of his murmuring against the Lord, insomuch that he was brought down into the depths of sorrow. And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord said unto him: Look upon the ball, and behold the things which are written.7 And it came to pass that when my father beheld the things which were written upon the ball, he did fear and tremble exceedingly, and also my brethren and the sons of Ishmael and our wives. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld the pointers which were in the ball, that they did work according to the faith and diligence and heed which we did give unto them. And there was also written upon them a new writing, which was plain to be read, which did give us understanding concerning the ways of the Lord; and it was written and changed from time to time, according to the faith and diligence which we gave unto it. And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did go forth up into the top of the mountain, according to the directions which were given upon the ball. And it came to pass that I did slay wild beasts, insomuch that I did obtain food for our families. And it came to pass that I did return to our tents, bearing the beasts which I had slain; and now when they beheld that I had obtained food, how great was their joy! And it came to pass that they did humble themselves before the Lord, and did give thanks unto him."
In the New Testament we're told about some of the signs that will be given before the Savior comes in a cloud with great glory. There will be great perplexity, earthquakes and tsunamis. We need to watch and be prepared at all times so we'll be able to excape all the terrible things that will come to pass before the Second Coming of
Christ, so that we'll be worthy to stand before Him. Luke 21:25-27,36 "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that faith helps us understand the word and work of God. It is the substance of things hoped for,the evidence of things not seen. Then these scriptures recount example after example of ancient people who centered their faith on Jesus Christ and the miracles that were wrought in their lives as a result. What a legacy of faith these generations of believers have provided for us! Hebrews 11:1-40 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect."
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In the New Testament we're told about some of the signs that will be given before the Savior comes in a cloud with great glory. There will be great perplexity, earthquakes and tsunamis. We need to watch and be prepared at all times so we'll be able to excape all the terrible things that will come to pass before the Second Coming of
Christ, so that we'll be worthy to stand before Him. Luke 21:25-27,36 "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."
Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that faith helps us understand the word and work of God. It is the substance of things hoped for,the evidence of things not seen. Then these scriptures recount example after example of ancient people who centered their faith on Jesus Christ and the miracles that were wrought in their lives as a result. What a legacy of faith these generations of believers have provided for us! Hebrews 11:1-40 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect."
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Monday, March 28, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon we read about how the Lord gave Lehi the Liahona--a round ball of curious workmanship which pointed the way for them to go. What will prove interesting is that it will only work when they are doing what's right. This is like the Holy Ghost that we all have. It points us in the direction we should go, but only when we're living our lives in such a way that we are in tune with the Lord. 1 Ne. 16: 10 "And it came to pass that as my father arose in the morning, and went forth to the tent door, to his great astonishment he beheld upon the ground a round ball of curious workmanship; and it was of fine brass. And within the ball were two spindles; and the one pointed the way whither we should go into the wilderness."
In the New Testament we're told to beware of scribes who walk with long robes, take the highest seats of honor, and make a show of saying lengthy prayers while taking advantage of poor widows. In other words, prideful people who make a show of being important while they are unkind to others will stand condemned before God. Luke 20: 46-47 "Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that whoever commits sin is of the devil because anyone who has been born of God will be righteouss and love other people. So it's pretty plain to tell the righteous from the wicked--we'll be able to tell by how they act. 1 John 3:7-10 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother."
In the New Testament we're told to beware of scribes who walk with long robes, take the highest seats of honor, and make a show of saying lengthy prayers while taking advantage of poor widows. In other words, prideful people who make a show of being important while they are unkind to others will stand condemned before God. Luke 20: 46-47 "Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that whoever commits sin is of the devil because anyone who has been born of God will be righteouss and love other people. So it's pretty plain to tell the righteous from the wicked--we'll be able to tell by how they act. 1 John 3:7-10 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother."
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that the wicked take the truth to be hard and it cuts them to the very center. If they were righteous, they'd be willing to hearken to the truth and give heed to it and not murmur against it. Nephi exhorted his brothers, once gain, to keep the commandments. 1 Ne. 16: 1-4 "And now it came to pass that after I, Nephi, had made an end of speaking to my brethren, behold they said unto me: Thou hast declared unto us hard things, more than we are able to bear. And it came to pass that I said unto them that I knew that I had spoken hard things against the wicked, according to the truth; and the righteous have I justified, and testified that they should be lifted up at the last day; wherefore, the guilty taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the very center. And now my brethren, if ye were righteous and were willing to hearken to the truth, and give heed unto it, that ye might walk uprightly before God, then ye would not murmur because of the truth, and say: Thou speakest hard things against us. And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did exhort my brethren, with all diligence, to keep the commandments of the Lord."
In the New Testament I read a parable of wicked husbandmen who beat servants, sending them away empty, and then killed the son who was sent to them to get fruit from the vineyard. This was actually spoken against the people who persecuted the prophets who had been sent to them and now would kill God's Son as well. Luke 20:9-19 "Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them."
In some verses with a thought booklet I read about how a eunuch was sitting in a chariot reading Isaiah when Philip came along and asked him if he understood what he was reading. He did not, and he said he could not understand unless someone explained it to him. How many times I've felt like that while reading Isaiah! Philip did explain to him that the reference to someone being led as a lamb to the laughter but not opening his mouth was a reference to Jesus Christ. How exciting it is when scriptures which have seemed so difficult to understand suddenly make sense, and the puzzle pieces all seem to fit into place. When we get discouraged with scriptures we don't understand, we need to keep reading anyway, with a prayerful heart and seeking knowledge from other inspired people. The scriptures do indeed contain the words of truth and we need to put forth effort to understand them. Acts 8:27-35 "And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus."
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In the New Testament I read a parable of wicked husbandmen who beat servants, sending them away empty, and then killed the son who was sent to them to get fruit from the vineyard. This was actually spoken against the people who persecuted the prophets who had been sent to them and now would kill God's Son as well. Luke 20:9-19 "Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them."
In some verses with a thought booklet I read about how a eunuch was sitting in a chariot reading Isaiah when Philip came along and asked him if he understood what he was reading. He did not, and he said he could not understand unless someone explained it to him. How many times I've felt like that while reading Isaiah! Philip did explain to him that the reference to someone being led as a lamb to the laughter but not opening his mouth was a reference to Jesus Christ. How exciting it is when scriptures which have seemed so difficult to understand suddenly make sense, and the puzzle pieces all seem to fit into place. When we get discouraged with scriptures we don't understand, we need to keep reading anyway, with a prayerful heart and seeking knowledge from other inspired people. The scriptures do indeed contain the words of truth and we need to put forth effort to understand them. Acts 8:27-35 "And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus."
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Saturday, March 26, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that the wicked cannot dwell with God, but there is a place of filthiness prepared for them. The wicked will be judged for their works and will not be able to taste the fruit of the tree of life, which is precious and desirable and the greatest of all the gifts of God. 1 Ne. 15: 33-36 "Wherefore, if they should die in their wickedness they must be cast off also, as to the things which are spiritual, which are pertaining to righteousness; wherefore, they must be brought to stand before God, to be judged of their works; and if their works have been filthiness they must needs be filthy; and if they be filthy it must needs be that they cannot dwell in the kingdom of God; if so, the kingdom of God must be filthy also. But behold, I say unto you, the kingdom of God is not filthy, and there cannot any unclean thing enter into the kingdom of God; wherefore there must needs be a place of filthiness prepared for that which is filthy. And there is a place prepared, yea, even that awful hell of which I have spoken, and the devil is the preparator of it; wherefore the final state of the souls of men is to dwell in the kingdom of God, or to be cast out because of that justice of which I have spoken. Wherefore, the wicked are rejected from the righteous, and also from that tree of life, whose fruit is most precious and most desirable above all other fruits; yea, and it is the greatest of all the gifts of God. And thus I spake unto my brethren. Amen."
In the New Testament I read a comparison between a Pharisee who thought he was very righteous and was quite prideful about it, and a publican who was humble and repentant. Jesus said the publican was more justified before God than the Pharisee was. Do we sometimes think that we're so righteous we don't need to repent? Do we look down on "sinners" and think we're better than they are? If so, need to humble ourselves before God, the way this publican did, or we're not going to find ourselves exalted at the last day. Luke 18:9-14 "And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to rejoice evermore. That sounds like something great to do, but how do we accomplish it? Sometimes our circumstances are bad and situations come our way that are very difficult to deal with. The next two verses give us some answers. We are to pray without ceasing and give thanks in everything. If we're in a constant frame of mind of prayer and are always giving thanks in all things (not just the good things) we're going to be grateful for what we have and look at things in a positive light. This is going to cause us to rejoice! So if things are looking pretty grim for us right now, it may be time to turn to prayer in an attitude of giving things for the blessings we have, and also thanking the Lord for sending us trials to strenghten us and humble us and turn us to Him. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
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In the New Testament I read a comparison between a Pharisee who thought he was very righteous and was quite prideful about it, and a publican who was humble and repentant. Jesus said the publican was more justified before God than the Pharisee was. Do we sometimes think that we're so righteous we don't need to repent? Do we look down on "sinners" and think we're better than they are? If so, need to humble ourselves before God, the way this publican did, or we're not going to find ourselves exalted at the last day. Luke 18:9-14 "And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
Some verses with a thought booklet tell us to rejoice evermore. That sounds like something great to do, but how do we accomplish it? Sometimes our circumstances are bad and situations come our way that are very difficult to deal with. The next two verses give us some answers. We are to pray without ceasing and give thanks in everything. If we're in a constant frame of mind of prayer and are always giving thanks in all things (not just the good things) we're going to be grateful for what we have and look at things in a positive light. This is going to cause us to rejoice! So if things are looking pretty grim for us right now, it may be time to turn to prayer in an attitude of giving things for the blessings we have, and also thanking the Lord for sending us trials to strenghten us and humble us and turn us to Him. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
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Friday, March 25, 2011
Daily Thoughts
In the Book of Mormon I read that Nephi's brothers asked him what the meaning of the iron rod was and he explained that it is the word of God. And if we hold tightly to it, the adversary will not have power over us to blind us and lead us away to destruction. Nephi exported them, with all the power and energy of his soul, to keep the commandments always in all things and give heed to the word of God. We need to take heed in our own lives that we do this, and keep on the path that will lead us to God. 1 Ne. 15: 23-25 "And they said unto me: What meaneth the rod of iron which our father saw, that led to the tree? And I said unto them that it was the word of God; and whoso would hearken unto the word of God, and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish; neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction. Wherefore, I, Nephi, did exhort them to give heed unto the word of the Lord; yea, I did exhort them with all the energies of my soul, and with all the faculty which I possessed, that they would give heed to the word of God and remember to keep his commandments always in all things."
In the New Testament I read the story of the ten lepers. Jesus healed all ten of them but only one paused to give thanks and glorify God. Jesus asked where the other nine were. We are given so many blessings in our lives. Do we take them for granted, like the nine lepers who were healed? Or do we pause to give thanks and glorify God who has poured out so many wonderful blessings to us? Luke 17:12-19 "And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole."
Some verses with a thought booklet remind us that when we do missionary work, we can sow the seeds and someone else may do the watering, but it is God who produces the increase. We might have a very eloquent way of teaching the gospel to others, but it is the Holy Ghost who converts a a person and causes their hearts to change. We can't take credit for this ourselves. We have nothing to brag about in bringing others to Christ. We of ourselves cannot change a person's heart. It takes God to do that. But we can try our best to be a good instrument in His hands to touch other people. 1 Corinthians 3:5-6 "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase."
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In the New Testament I read the story of the ten lepers. Jesus healed all ten of them but only one paused to give thanks and glorify God. Jesus asked where the other nine were. We are given so many blessings in our lives. Do we take them for granted, like the nine lepers who were healed? Or do we pause to give thanks and glorify God who has poured out so many wonderful blessings to us? Luke 17:12-19 "And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole."
Some verses with a thought booklet remind us that when we do missionary work, we can sow the seeds and someone else may do the watering, but it is God who produces the increase. We might have a very eloquent way of teaching the gospel to others, but it is the Holy Ghost who converts a a person and causes their hearts to change. We can't take credit for this ourselves. We have nothing to brag about in bringing others to Christ. We of ourselves cannot change a person's heart. It takes God to do that. But we can try our best to be a good instrument in His hands to touch other people. 1 Corinthians 3:5-6 "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase."
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